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Rockies likely to seek rotation help from within

Rockies likely to seek rotation help from within

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Francis' strong start 1:01

5/14/13: Jeff Francis strikes out seven batters over six solid innings of work against the Cubs, allowing just three hits and one walk

By Thomas Harding
/
MLB.com |

PHOENIX -- Rockies manager Walt Weiss said he isn't looking with envy at the big-spending Dodgers, who acquired starting pitcher Ricky Nolasco from the Marlins on Saturday in part because they were willing to pay all of the approximately $5 million of salary that remains for this season.

The Rockies are likely to face Nolasco during the four-game series in Los Angeles leading into the All-Star break.

"We pay attention, especially when it's in the division, and we're going in there pretty soon," Weiss said. "In this league, you're facing a big league pitcher every night. Don't make too much of it. We prepare for the guy we're facing and go from there.

"There are still guys [internally] that we feel like can help us. It's not that easy to go out and get a guy. They don't pick them up at the flea market. It's a process, trying to go get a front-line arm. But we're always trying to improve our club. We've got guys out there pounding the streets for anybody that can help us."

It's more likely that pitchers like young right-hander Juan Nicasio, veterans Jeff Francis and Aaron Cook, all at Triple-A Colorado Springs, or recently acquired Collin McHugh (from the Mets) will have a chance to help the Rockies. The Rockies are loath to mortgage the future in a trade for a veteran who may or may not be able to adjust to Coors Field as a home park.

The Rockies signed veteran Roy Oswalt after the season began, but that hasn't worked. Oswalt lost his first three starts, then left with a hamstring injury in the second inning Sunday against the D-backs.

Meanwhile, the Rockies compete in the same division with the Dodgers, who can absorb heavy salaries.

"When you have a lot of money, maybe you can cover up the mistakes you make as far as a transaction here or there," Weiss said. "Ultimately, you've got guys that go out there and compete.

"I'll let those guys [ownership and front office] worry about personnel and I'll manage the club. I feel good about the guys we have. We've got to have guys step up, no doubt about it, but the ability is there."